Bound feet, Chine, early 1900s

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Bound feet, Chine, early 1900s

Bound feet, Chine, early 1900s. Date: early 1900s

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 32349566

© The Keasbury-Gordon Photograph Archive / Mary Evans

Binding Bound Chine Feet Foot

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EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures a glimpse into the painful tradition of foot binding in early 1900s China. The delicate yet deformed feet of the Chinese woman in the photograph are a stark reminder of the extreme lengths women went to conform to societal beauty standards during this time period. The practice of foot binding, which began in the 10th century and was eventually banned in 1912, involved tightly wrapping young girls' feet to prevent them from growing naturally. This resulted in excruciating pain, limited mobility, and lifelong deformities for those who underwent the process. Despite its cruel nature, foot binding was seen as a symbol of femininity and social status in Chinese culture. Women with bound feet were considered more desirable for marriage and were often associated with grace and elegance. This vintage lantern slide serves as a powerful historical artifact, shedding light on the oppressive beauty ideals that women faced in early 20th century China. It is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of women to fit into narrow definitions of beauty imposed by society. As we reflect on this image today, let us remember the resilience and strength of these women who endured such physical hardships for the sake of acceptance and conformity. May their stories serve as a testament to the enduring power of female solidarity and liberation from harmful beauty standards.

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